Why South Cyprus is Not Joining Schengen Yet
Expert Analysis on the Border Conflicts and Visa Myths for Students
Fact Check: Why the North-South border conflict remains the biggest hurdle for Schengen entry.
Currently, the viral topic in the study abroad industry is the news that South Cyprus is joining the Schengen area. While this campaign has been running for a few years, Awais Chaudhary (AA Study Consultant) breaks down the ground realities that every applicant needs to know before applying [00:00:00].
1. The North Cyprus Conflict
South Cyprus has been meeting many Schengen requirements, but the biggest hurdle remains North Cyprus. This area is considered “occupied” by Turkey, and until the disputes between North and South Cyprus are resolved through formal agreements, Schengen entry is unlikely [00:00:22].
The Schengen agreement is a massive commitment that requires strict control over borders. Until they determine how to secure and monitor these boundaries, they won’t be admitted to the zone [00:00:42].
2. The Reality of Visa Success Rates
Many students are rushing to apply, thinking that once they arrive, the country will automatically become part of Schengen. Awais Chaudhary warns about the potential consequences of joining:
- Reduced Visa Ratio: If it joins Schengen, the visa ratio will likely drop to less than 30% [00:01:10].
- Stricter Controls: The biggest Schengen requirement is controlling illegal immigration. The high visa ratios currently seen will vanish [00:01:15].
- The Romania Example: Look at Romania; its visa ratio was 90%+ but dropped to 30-40% after joining Schengen. They are now very strict, even with strong profiles [00:01:25].
3. Will Matric or Low Grades Still Work?
If South Cyprus joins Schengen, the days of easy admission for everyone will end. You can no longer expect to go based on Matric or with marks as low as 40-45% [00:01:42]. The profile requirements will align with the high standards of other Schengen states.
4. Should You Still Apply?
Despite the Schengen delay, South Cyprus is still a decent country for earning and study. However, you should not apply based on the false hope of an immediate Schengen transition [00:00:55].
Clarifying the Schengen Visa Form
Just because some forms look like “Schengen Visa Forms” now does not mean the country has signed the final agreement. These are procedural steps, not a final entry ticket [00:02:03].
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Watch the Full South Cyprus Analysis
